In all the chapters the Case Studies represent situations similar to those that the medical assistant may encounter in daily practice. Students are encouraged to consider the case study as they read each chapter.

A young, apparently healthy 35-year-old male has a consultation appointment with a cardiologist today in the office where you work as a medical assistant. When he presents to the office, he is complaining of a recent onset of shortness of breath and an unexplained swelling (edema) of the lower extremities. As part of the screening process, the physician orders an electrocardiogram (EKG), which shows abnormalities. The patient states that he had some dental work done approximately two weeks before the symptoms of shortness of breath and edema began. Because the EKG was abnormal, the physician asks you to schedule a stress test with Doppler studies for later in the week. The diagnosis on the chart is to rule out a suspected cardiomyopathy.

As you read this chapter, consider the following questions:

1. What was the purpose of the EKG?

2. What special instructions should be provided to the patient when scheduling him for the stress test and Doppler studies?

3. What educational requirements should you meet in order to conduct these tests with the physician present?